DIANNA Project Trainee Hirata Runa Dies at 8

Hirata Runa, an 8-year-old trainee with Japanese girl group project DIANNA Project who also performed as a child singer, has died. Her agency announced through her official X account that she passed away on September 25. DIANNA Project said the cause was myocarditis resulting from influenza and asked the public to respect the family’s privacy.

Runa’s final performance took place on September 20, five days before her death. Afterward, she shared a message expressing thanks and saying she had enjoyed the event. In a statement following her passing, her family and agency also thanked fellow performers, supporters, staff and others who had spent time with her.

The family noted that Runa had spent about one-third of her eight years taking part in idol activities. They expressed the hope that fans would continue to remember her. DIANNA Project shared the announcement on behalf of her bereaved family and acknowledged the support she had received during her time as a performer.